The Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh and Musqueam First Nations are teaming up to investigate a former residential school site in B.C.
In a release, the groups say they're looking for answers about children who went to the former St. Paul's Indian Residential School but didn't make it home.
The investigation has received the support of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver.
A spokesperson for the Squamish First Nation says the work is being done is necessary for reconciliation efforts.
"It’s important to note that our People’s experiences with St. Paul’s Indian Residential School are well known and healing is needed to move forward. This work is being done to respect and address both known and unknown knowledge, and is a critical part of reconciliation."
The investigation will include a formal interview process with survivors who went to the school to help narrow down search areas.
It will also collect records related to the school's history from all levels of government, the Catholic Church, and all other religious entities associated with the school.
As well, remote-sensing searches in defined areas of interest will take place.
Over 2,000 Indigenous kids attended the school between 1899 and 1959, and public records indicate 12 unidentified students died between 1904 and 1913.
Unlike many other residential school sites, which are usually located on First Nations reserves, this school's site is currently owned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver.
The site is now home to St. Thomas Aquinas Regional Secondary School, which is a private Catholic school.
NRP Searching for Stolen Scooter
Sullivan Park Receiving Playground Upgrades
Police Looking for Missing Woman
Man Killed in Wainfleet Crash
Police Arrest Another Assault Suspect
Picture of Assault Suspect Released
Premier Fumes Over Gas Price Increase